The Era of Hope Scholar Award supports individuals who are early in their careers and have demonstrated significant potential for innovation in breast cancer research. These individuals should be exceptionally talented scientists who have shown that they are the “best and brightest” in their field(s) through extraordinary creativity, vision, and productivity. They should have demonstrated experience in forming effective partnerships and collaborations and should exhibit strong potential for leadership in the breast cancer research community. Since the intent of the Era of Hope Scholar Award is to recognize creative and innovative individuals rather than projects, the central feature of the award is the innovative contribution that the Principal Investigator (PI) can make toward ending breast cancer. The PI should articulate a vision that challenges current dogma and demonstrates an ability to look beyond tradition and convention. Experience in breast cancer research is not required; however, the application must focus on breast cancer and the PI must commit at least 50% of his/her full-time professional effort during the award period to breast cancer research.